Hysteroscopy Specialist

What is a hysteroscopy?

A hysteroscopy procedure allows the doctors from The Guirguis Obstetrics & Gynecology Group to get a good look inside your uterus. The procedure is performed using an instrument called a hysteroscope, which is a thin, lighted tube. The doctors insert the hysteroscope into your vagina to provide a view of your cervix and the interior of your uterus.

In some cases, a hysteroscopy becomes operative, and the surgeons use small instruments to correct diagnosed conditions. The instruments can be inserted through the hysteroscope.

When is a hysteroscopy appropriate?

A hysteroscopy may be ordered to diagnose abnormal uterine bleeding. This involves extra heavy bleeding, bleeding between periods, or cycles that last longer than seven days. An operative hysteroscopy may be appropriate in cases of:

• Polyps and fibroids located in the uterus
• Adhesions, which are bands of scar tissue that form in the uterus
• Malformations of the uterus that are present from birth

A hysteroscope allows the doctors to perform endometrial ablation, which involves destroying the lining of the uterus to address abnormal bleeding.

What happens during a hysteroscopy procedure?

You’re usually offered a sedative to help you relax prior to the hysteroscopy and then put under anesthesia. Your doctor from The Guirguis Obstetrics & Gynecology Group then widens your cervix and inserts the hysteroscope tube through your vagina and cervix into your uterus.

A gas or liquid solution is sent to your uterus to expand the organ and clear away any blood or mucus. The doctor shines a light through the hysteroscope to view inside your uterus and performs any necessary surgery using small instruments inserted through the tube.

Usually, a hysteroscopy is performed as an outpatient procedure, and you’re sent home to recover the same day. You need two to three days to recover from the effects of the procedure and the gas or saline put into your uterus. You may also experience light bleeding for a few days. Your doctor gives you aftercare instructions and information about limiting activity for a few weeks to allow your body to heal.

What are the benefits of a hysteroscopy?

A hysteroscopy offers a minimally invasive way to address a number of issues involving your pelvic organs. Compared to traditional open surgery, a hysteroscopy has several benefits:

• A shorter hospital stay and recovery time
• Fewer pain medications following the procedure
• Avoidance of a hysterectomy

To learn more about what to expect during a hysteroscopy, call the office of The Guirguis Obstetrics & Gynecology Group or book an appointment online.